Research Reveals Widespread Brain Disease Among Former NFL Players

The largest study ever conducted on deceased NFL players’ brains indicates that chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is more common than previously thought. This degenerative brain disease results from repeated head impacts. Research findings suggest that at least one in four former NFL players who have died in recent years had CTE.

Ann McKee, the director of Boston University’s Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy Center, led the research. The study highlights that the actual prevalence of this brain disease at the time of death is likely higher than current estimates suggest. Understanding the prevalence of CTE is essential for improving player safety and addressing the long-term impacts of professional football.